In the second of our “Preparing for XMAS” workshops we were looking at the costs of XMAS, both financially and emotionally.
The pictures show the results of our discussions, and it just goes to show the pressures we’re all under during the festive period. When we looked at ways to cope with some of these costs there were some great suggestions… the page only shows the headlines, I think we could have talked about this all night!
If you can think of any we’ve missed, put them in the comments.
We also had the chance to talk to Naomi and Liz from CAP. These guys run courses about debt avoidance and money management and they were able to share ideas for saving money. Here’s some of the money saving tips we talked about:
* Heating costs – social tariffs available for those that are eligible – if you wear a jumper and reduce your thermostat by 1 degree (centigrade) you can save £80/year – talk to your landlord about home improvements that might make your home more efficient – apply for “green grants” for insulation and windows
* Shopping/Gifts – make a budget and stick to it – shop around – avoid impulse buying (sleep on it) – take a look at websites like moneysavingexpert.com and freecycle groups – use charity shops, there’s literally tons of good stuff to be had and you’re supporting charity and reducing the amount of stuff that goes to landfill.
* Money Saving Events – look out for events like swish (clothes swap), toy swaps, book swaps etc – keep an eye on social media for events
* Food – buy what you need, you don’t have to be too extravagant just because it’s XMAS – subscribe to the community larder – use apps like OLIO (surplus supermarket food), Too Good To Go (surplus cafe and restaurant food) – if you’re really struggling, the foodbank is always available
The good news is that a lot of these tips are good for the planet too! Saves you money and saves the planet – win, win. Naomi and Liz left a few spare leaflets about debt avoidance and money management – email ourpatch.org.uk if you need help and I’ll forward you the details. I’m sure there’s tons of things we didn’t mention. Any suggestions? Put them in the comments – we’d love to hear from you.